Because of them and their astonishment with the film, I learn something new every year – hence the reason I keep presenting it to them. They are well-read, often political, and have a world experiences so are able to bring a lot to their appreciation of the text
I’ve been following the discussions on texts with interest. I’ve noticed that a number of the texts people are asking about are very dark – depressing, violent or from the horror genre. I vividly remember the nightmares I suffered after my Year 10 (4th Form in those days!) teacher had us study disasters/apocalyptic texts for a term. I strongly believe that we have a responsibility to offer texts that offer hope and a message that the world is a survivable place – we don’t know what is going through the minds of a lot of the teenagers we have in front of us, or their circumstances. I haven’t read Precious, but I certainly would not have students study the film.
i taught PRECIOUS - a very very challenging film for year 12 - but littered with perspectives and techniques and opportunity for students to bring their p.o.v... and it looks like it has come back with a 100% pass - can not ask for more.
V for Vendetta
Is great for less able students, as well as bright students.
The Last King of Scotland
“Absolute power corrupts absolutely”.
Schindler's List
It led to lots of discussion about using a corrupt system for good and the idea of redemption.
Bloody Sunday
Revolutionary Road
The Reader
A strong Year 12 group would manage this I suspect.
Shutter Island
New release and just wonderful.
Children of Men
Absolutely fantastic film for Year 12 or 13. It is an R16 – we sent a letter home before teaching it and made sure all students were 16.
Once Were Warriors
Minority Report
When we were Kings
Atonement
Platoon
As it slammed the idea that in war the first thing to die is innocence and beauty.
Lord of the Flies
Stand by Me
Into the Wild
Sean Penn
Themes of the identity and family relationships. Students really engage with this film.
Schools should adhere to guidelines available from the Office of Film and Literature Classification regarding how films should be chosen and used in schools.
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